Mon Oct 28 20:27:55 UTC 2024: ## Kirsten Resigns as Pakistan Coach After Just Five Months, Citing Power Struggles

**Lahore, Pakistan** – Former South African cricketer Gary Kirsten has resigned as head coach of Pakistan’s ODI and T20I teams, just five months after his appointment. The resignation, coming mere days before Pakistan’s upcoming ODI series in Australia, has sparked controversy and raised concerns about power dynamics within the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB).

Kirsten’s departure has been linked to a disagreement over captaincy. It is believed he wanted a different captain than the newly appointed Mohammad Rizwan, who took over from Babar Azam in the limited-overs formats. This perceived conflict, according to former Pakistan batsman Basit Ali, led to Kirsten feeling he couldn’t exercise full authority within the team.

Ali, in a statement on his YouTube channel, suggested that PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi wields considerable power and that anyone challenging his decisions faces being sidelined.

“Mohsin Naqvi has come with a lot of power. The coaches, selectors and managers are being removed. Earlier, the chairman used to be changed from time to time. Now, whoever raises their voice will be sidelined,” Ali said.

The PCB confirmed Kirsten’s resignation and announced that Australian coach Jason Gillespie will take over for the Australia tour.

The sudden resignation of Kirsten, a renowned coach with a proven track record, raises serious questions about the PCB’s management and the future direction of Pakistan cricket. The team will now face the challenge of adapting to a new leadership structure and a new coach in the upcoming series against Australia.

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